Swansea's historic castle will be opened up to the public for the "first time in a generation" next month after the local authority announced plans to hold tours of the building.

Welsh Assembly Government funding worth £165,000 will enable Swansea Council to hold tours of the castle on 9-10 September, with 700 places being made available over two days. The tours - the first time the public has entered the site for "at least" 40 years - will feature the medieval vaulted rooms and the cells of the 18th century prison.

Swansea Council leader Chris Holley said: "[Swansea Castle has] been inaccessible for decades but this work means many people will be able to discover the castle for the very first time. "It's hugely important that we conserve our history and the long-term vision is that the castle could become a centrepiece for tourism in the city centre area."

Details: www.swansea.gov.uk/swanseacastle Image: Swanseatilidie